Let go of Sonny's hand, Mama
If he's to learn to stand all alone
Have you forgot when you were on your own?
It wasn't long ago, not so long
To be where you are now
You worked your fingers to the bone
And that has made you strong
I know you want to give him happiness
And give his life a lift
But you're sure to kill his spirit with your gift
So take off that protective shell
Tear down the shelter wall
He'll never learn to stand up if you never let him fall

Let Sis down off your knee, Papa
If she's to know what freedom is in truth
Have you forgot when you were but a youth?
It wasn't long ago, not so long
You learned that it was eye-for-eye
And you learned it tooth-for-tooth
And that has made you strong
I know you want to buy her happiness
And let her live in grace
But you'll squeeze out the life with your embrace
So take off that protective shell
Tear down the shelter wall
She'll never learn to stand up if you never let her fall
(Let her fall)